Find the Cure: Five Bike-Skill Fixes

Unmentionablitis

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Symptoms: You have (ahem) burning questions about an anatomical region too sensitive to mention publicly. From soft-tissue ­issues such as pain, numbness, or tingling, to frictional insults that make a postride bathroom trip a harrowing experience, any trouble down under can throw off your game.

Rx: The two likeliest sources: the wrong saddle and less than optimal positioning on your bike. Find a shop that does professional bike fitting ($50 to $200, depending how extensive the process), in which a trained employee tailors your bike to fit your body. Part of that process will involve finding the right saddle. A preride slathering of chamois cream can also prevent saddle sores caused by friction and longer rides.